Winter in Seattle transforms the city into a wonderland of festive lights, creative crafts and cherished traditions.
Each year, several winter festivals capture the spirit of the season, drawing locals and visitors alike to celebrate the time of year in unique ways. From gliding boats adorned with holiday lights to dazzling lantern displays, Seattle’s winter events offer something special for everyone.
9 annual Seattle festivals to visit in winter
Argosy Christmas Ships Festival
December
The Argosy Christmas Ships Festival is one of Seattle’s most beloved traditions.
This month-long event features parades of brightly lit boats cruising the waterways of Puget Sound, Lake Washington and Lake Union. The main attraction is the lead ship, which hosts a choir performing holiday classics with the music broadcast to shoreside gatherings. Families often cozy up around bonfires on the beach to enjoy the show, making it an especially magical way to celebrate the holidays.
The event usually runs from late November through December, and the schedule includes numerous stops, so there’s plenty of opportunity to catch a glimpse of the fleet.
Garden d’Lights
December
Held at the Bellevue Botanical Garden, Garden d’Lights offers a breathtaking display of lights inspired by the magic of nature. Thousands of LEDs are meticulously arranged to mimic flowers, animals and landscapes, creating a whimsical, immersive experience that visitors can stroll through. This luminous garden offers themed sections that change each year, so don’t think you’ve seen it all if you’ve already been!
The event usually runs from late November through early January, with tickets available for purchase online.
Urban Craft Uprising
December
Seattle’s creative spirit shines at the Urban Craft Uprising, the largest indie craft show in the Pacific Northwest. This festival is a haven for local artisans and crafters, showcasing everything from handmade jewelry and clothing to artisanal foods and unique home goods. Held at the Seattle Center Exhibition Hall, the popular and widely-attended event typically occurs in early December, just in time for holiday shopping. It’s a fantastic place to support small businesses while also finding one-of-a-kind gifts for loved ones — or for yourself!
Winterfest at Seattle Center
December
The Winterfest at Seattle Center is a multi-week celebration that captures the essence of the wintery season with a wide array of activities. From ice skating at the outdoor rink to live performances and a winter train and village exhibit, Winterfest is perfect for families and anyone looking to soak in the festive atmosphere. The festival usually begins in late November and continues through the New Year, with several key events spread across the iconic Seattle Center campus. The celebration is free to enter, though some activities, like ice skating, may require a fee.
Woodland Park Zoo WildLanterns
December – January
For a more exotic twist on holiday lights, the Woodland Park Zoo WildLanterns event is not to be missed!
This annual winter festival transforms the beloved zoo into a glowing spectacle of custom-made lanterns depicting animals and natural scenes from around the world. Unlike traditional holiday lights, these intricate lanterns showcase the artistry of international designers and provide an educational component as visitors learn about the creatures represented. The event typically runs from mid-November through early January, and each year promises new displays and immersive experiences!
Seattle Chamber Music Winter Festival
January
The Seattle Chamber Music Winter Festival is a haven for classical music enthusiasts. This multi-day festival typically takes place in January and features world-class chamber music performances.
Hosted by the Seattle Chamber Music Society, the festival draws celebrated musicians from around the globe to perform in smaller, more intimate settings than many of us are used to. Performances are held at well-established Seattle venues like Benaroya Hall, providing an exquisite backdrop for the artistry on display and making for a classy night out on the town!
Wintergrass Bluegrass Festival
February
Bluegrass lovers rejoice each February with the arrival of the Wintergrass Bluegrass Festival. Located just outside Seattle in Bellevue, this festival brings together top-tier bluegrass bands and musicians for a weekend of toe-tapping performances and workshops. With concerts, jam sessions and educational opportunities, Wintergrass is ideal for fans and aspiring musicians alike. The festival also focuses on community and inclusivity, making it a welcoming space for all ages and skill levels. Whether you’re a die-hard bluegrass aficionado or just curious about the genre, Wintergrass promises an unforgettable experience each and every year.
Children’s Film Festival
February
Families and film buffs alike will enjoy the Children’s Film Festival Seattle, which showcases an inspiring selection of international films for young audiences. Hosted by the Northwest Film Forum, this annual event typically runs from January to February and features animated shorts, documentaries and feature films that celebrate diverse cultures and storytelling. In addition to screenings, the festival offers interactive workshops and activities that engage children and foster a love for filmmaking. With unique films and a chance to interact with a wide variety of perspectives, the festival is a fantastic opportunity to introduce kids to the world of cinema while supporting independent and global filmmakers.
Seattle Boat Show
February
For those drawn to the water and Seattle’s boatbuilding history, the Seattle Boat Show is a must-visit event that celebrates all things nautical.
Held each January (usually late January to early February), this large-scale show features an impressive array of everything from luxury yachts to small kayaks, along with marine accessories and expert-led seminars.
Split between indoor displays at Lumen Field Event Center and in-water exhibits on South Lake Union, the show is a blend of adventure and education — so whether you’re a seasoned sailor or just looking to dream about your next adventure on the water, the Seattle Boat Show is sure to offer something you’ll like.
Seattle’s winter festivals bring the community together in celebration of art, light and tradition. And, if you live anywhere in or near our luxury Seattle apartments, then you have first pick to some of these amazing activities! Whether you’re marveling at illuminated boats, exploring a garden of lights, discovering unique crafts or enjoying the charm of an urban winter village, there’s no shortage of seasonal cheer in the Emerald City. So bundle up, grab your friends and family and make these festivals part of your winter plans!
Have fun!
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Featured photo by Kayle Kaupanger on Unsplash
Colleen Ford is a South African who now lives on Oahu in Hawai'i. She loves to travel, camp, spearfish and hike. She's also part of a super cool canoe club and is pretty decent at it. Colleen enjoys Star Wars and also not being cold ever.
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